We researched and compared the top GPS units designed for off-road motorcycling. Our evaluation is based on manufacturer specifications, published industry standards for ruggedness (MIL-STD-810G, IPX7), and aggregated owner feedback from experienced dirt bikers. We focused on trail navigation, durability, battery life, and ease of use with gloves. Here are the seven best GPS devices for dirt bike riding.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Garmin GPSMAP 66i Best Overall Topo maps, inReach satellite SOS, 35-hour battery, 3-axis compass |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Garmin Montana 700i Best Touchscreen 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen, inReach, 18-hour battery |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Garmin eTrex 32x Best Value 2.2-inch color display, 25-hour battery, WAAS GPS, preloaded topo |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Garmin Zumo XT2 Best for Adventure Bikes 5.5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen, 6-inch rugged, IPX7, motorcycle mount |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Garmin GPSMAP 64sx Best Button Interface 2.6-inch color display, quad-helix antenna, 16-hour battery, IPX7 |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Trail Tech Voyager Pro Best for Enduro 4.3-inch color display, GPS lap timing, ride logging, Bluetooth |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Garmin Edge 130 Plus Best Compact 1.8-inch monochrome display, 15-hour battery, GPS/GLONASS, ANT+ |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Garmin GPSMAP 66i: Best Overall
The Garmin GPSMAP 66i combines top-tier trail GPS with satellite communication. In our evaluation, it offers the most complete navigation package for backcountry dirt biking. The preloaded TopoActive maps show trails, elevation contours, and land ownership, making route planning straightforward. Owner feedback consistently praises the bright screen readability in sunlight and the responsive touchscreen that works with light gloves. The 35-hour battery in standard mode easily covers multi-day rides.
However, the satellite SOS and messaging require an active inReach subscription, adding ongoing cost. The unit is also heavier than some competitors, and the interface can be complex for first-time users. Riders who stick to familiar local trails and never venture into areas without cell service may find the subscription unnecessary and could prefer a simpler, more affordable GPS.
- Built-in topo maps with routable trails and public land boundaries
- Two-way satellite messaging and interactive SOS via inReach
- Rugged MIL-STD-810G with IPX7 water rating
Pros: Excellent trail mapping with turn-by-turn navigation; inReach adds critical safety for remote rides
Cons: Subscription needed for satellite features
2. Garmin Montana 700i: Best Touchscreen
The Garmin Montana 700i is the best choice for riders who prioritize a large, clear touchscreen. Our research shows its 5-inch display is highly readable even in bright sunlight, and the touch response works well with gloves. The preloaded TopoActive maps include trail networks, and the unit supports direct routing on trails, a feature many owners appreciate. The inReach satellite functionality adds a safety net for solo riders.
That said, the battery life is only about 18 hours in GPS mode, which may require recharging on longer trips. The large size can be cumbersome on a handlebar mount, and the price is premium. Riders who prefer a more compact unit or who do not need satellite messaging might find the Montana 700i overkill. It is best for serious adventurers who want a large map display and are willing to manage battery life.
- Large 5-inch sunlight-readable display with glove-friendly touch
- Preloaded TopoActive maps with direct routing on trails
- InReach satellite SOS and messaging
Pros: Bright, large screen excellent for quick glances; Rugged design with IPX7 water resistance
Cons: Shorter battery life compared to button-operated models
3. Garmin eTrex 32x: Best Value
The Garmin eTrex 32x offers strong trail navigation at a budget-friendly price. In our comparison, it delivers accurate WAAS GPS and preloaded TopoActive maps with shaded relief, which helps with terrain awareness. Owner feedback highlights the outstanding 25-hour battery life from two AA batteries, a major advantage for multi-day trips where charging is not possible. The unit is compact and rugged with IPX7 water resistance.
However, the 2.2-inch screen is small, and the interface uses a button pad that can be less intuitive than a touchscreen. The lack of satellite SOS means no emergency communication. Riders who need a large, glove-friendly display or safety features like inReach should look elsewhere. The eTrex 32x is ideal for budget-conscious riders who prioritize battery life and basic trail navigation.
- Preloaded TopoActive maps with shaded relief
- 25-hour battery life on two AA batteries
- WAAS-enabled GPS for improved accuracy
Pros: Excellent battery life and uses standard AA batteries; Affordable price for a capable trail GPS
Cons: Small screen can be hard to read at speed
4. Garmin Zumo XT2: Best for Adventure Bikes
The Garmin Zumo XT2 is a premium motorcycle GPS that excels on adventure bikes but also works on dirt bikes. Our research indicates its 5.5-inch display is among the best for glove use, and the Adventurous Routing feature automatically creates off-road routes. The unit includes preloaded trail maps and supports Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music. Owner reviews note the rugged build and IPX7 water resistance.
However, the Zumo XT2 is large and heavy, making it less suitable for tight handlebar setups on pure dirt bikes. The price is high, and many off-road features overlap with Garmin’s handheld units. Riders who primarily ride tight single-track on lightweight dirt bikes may find the Zumo XT2 too bulky. It is best for adventure riders who split time between pavement and dirt.
- 5.5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen with high brightness
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for smartphone connectivity
- Preloaded Garmin Adventurous Routing and trail maps
Pros: Large, bright screen with excellent glove response; Adventurous routing designed for off-road exploration
Cons: Expensive and aimed at adventure bikes, not pure dirt bikes
5. Garmin GPSMAP 64sx: Best Button Interface
The Garmin GPSMAP 64sx is a rugged handheld with a quad-helix antenna that provides superior signal strength in heavy tree cover and canyons. In our evaluation, this makes it a strong choice for riders in dense forests. The button interface is easy to use with thick gloves, and the unit is MIL-STD-810G rated for drops and vibration. Preloaded TopoActive maps include trail networks.
However, the screen resolution is lower than newer models, and battery life is about 16 hours, less than the eTrex series. The interface can feel dated, and the price is mid-range. Riders who ride in open terrain where satellite signal is strong may not need the quad-helix antenna. The GPSMAP 64sx is best for those who ride in challenging canopy conditions and prefer physical buttons.
- Quad-helix antenna for better signal in dense cover
- Preloaded TopoActive maps with routable trails
- Rugged and waterproof with MIL-STD-810G rating
Pros: Excellent satellite reception under tree canopy; Durable button interface works with any gloves
Cons: Lower resolution screen and shorter battery than eTrex
6. Trail Tech Voyager Pro: Best for Enduro
The Trail Tech Voyager Pro is designed specifically for enduro and off-road racing. Our research shows it excels at lap timing, speed tracking, and ride logging, making it a favorite among competitive riders. The 4.3-inch color display is readable in sunlight, and the unit is waterproof. Bluetooth connectivity allows pairing with a smartphone for notifications and data download.
However, its trail navigation capabilities are basic compared to Garmin’s topo maps. The device lacks preloaded topographic maps and relies on simple breadcrumb trails. Owner feedback indicates the interface can be glitchy. Riders who need detailed trail maps and turn-by-turn navigation should choose a Garmin. The Voyager Pro is best for enduro racers who want performance metrics and basic navigation.
- Built-in GPS lap timer and ride logging for training
- Bluetooth connectivity for phone and data transfer
- Rugged design with waterproof housing
Pros: Lap timer and performance metrics useful for enduro racing; Large display with good sunlight readability
Cons: Limited trail map detail compared to Garmin units
7. Garmin Edge 130 Plus: Best Compact
The Garmin Edge 130 Plus is a compact GPS cycling computer that can be used on a dirt bike for basic navigation. In our evaluation, it is best for riders who want a lightweight, low-profile unit for tracking routes and speed. It uses GPS and GLONASS for quick positioning and offers breadcrumb navigation from uploaded tracks. The battery lasts about 15 hours, and ANT+ allows pairing with heart rate monitors and speed sensors.
However, it has no preloaded maps, so it is not suitable for exploring unfamiliar trails without a preloaded route. The monochrome screen is small and less detailed than color units. Riders who need topo maps or turn-by-turn directions should skip this. The Edge 130 Plus is ideal for riders who already know their trails and want a simple, lightweight tracker.
- Ultra-compact and lightweight at 33 grams
- GPS and GLONASS for fast satellite acquisition
- ANT+ connectivity for sensors and smartphone
Pros: Very small and easy to mount on any handlebar; Good battery life for a compact unit
Cons: No preloaded maps, only breadcrumb navigation
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a dirt bike GPS?
Key features include ruggedness (MIL-STD-810G and IPX7 rating), long battery life (at least 15 hours), preloaded topographic maps with trails, a glove-friendly interface, and satellite communication for safety if riding remote areas. WAAS or GLONASS support improves accuracy in canyons or forests.
Can I use a regular car GPS on a dirt bike?
Car GPS units are not recommended for dirt bikes. They lack ruggedness, are not waterproof, and their maps are designed for roads, not trails. They also cannot withstand vibration and impacts. Always choose a GPS designed for off-road or motorcycle use.
How important is satellite SOS for dirt biking?
Satellite SOS (like Garmin inReach) is critical for solo riders or those going into areas without cell coverage. It can be a lifesaver in emergencies. However, it requires a subscription. For group rides on well-known trails, it may be optional.
Do I need a touchscreen or buttons for a dirt bike GPS?
Touchscreens are convenient but must be glove-friendly and readable in sunlight. Buttons are more reliable with thick gloves and in wet conditions. Many Garmin models offer both. Consider your typical riding gloves and weather.
How do I mount a GPS on my dirt bike?
Most GPS units come with a handlebar mount or can use RAM mounts. Ensure the mount is sturdy and vibration-dampening. Some riders prefer a top-tube mount or tank bag mount. Always secure the GPS with a tether in case of crashes.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top GPS units for dirt biking, the Garmin GPSMAP 66i stands out as the best overall due to its combination of trail mapping, satellite safety, and durability. For riders who want a large touchscreen, the Garmin Montana 700i is an excellent runner-up, especially for adventure bikes. Choose based on your specific needs for battery life, screen size, and safety features.
